Brainwork Exercises

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Foundational training is what I consider to be a necessity. The recipe within a foundational training program can vary from trainer to trainer. In my program, the recipe starts with a minimum of 13 groundwork exercises which are mentally engaging brainwork.  In the teaching phase, the horse is rewarded positively for even the smallest amount of try when seeking the right answer.  Each exercise is repeated until the horse provides "the exact right answer," at which point, the release of pressure also results in positive praise.  This cycle of learning is continued in the 14 under-saddle exercises as well.  

The exercises are derived from the Downunder horsemanship program. Even though we use the Fundamentals Method list as our foundation in our program, it’s HOW it is implemented that’s important to discern. When taught properly with purpose, kindness, and appropriate feel and timing, the human opens up a positive reinforcement dialogue with the horse. 

The ultimate goal is for the horse to enjoy the work.  We want to encourage use of the thinking side of the brain and the result is a horse showing signs of eagerness to learn.  That eagerness to earn positive reinforcement eventually provides the horse with a sense of safety.  A horse that feels safe with the human is a gift that we earn, not an expectation that we take.  A horse that feels safe is compelled to relax…relaxation is the key ingredient for a horse to learn.